Photo: Article18
In January 2025, 41-year-old Ghazal Marzban was detained in Tehran's Evin Prison after being sentenced to six months' imprisonment and 74 lashes. The charges against her included "propaganda against the regime" and "appearing in public without a hijab." Ghazal, a Christian convert from Islam, had initially been arrested in November 2024 while participating in protests against government oppression. She was released from prison in 2025 after serving two months of her initially sentenced term.
For unknown reasons, the Christian convert was recently arrested again. On January 14th, two hours after being taken into custody, she contacted her husband to inform him that she was being held by the Ministry of Intelligence. Since that phone call, no further information has been provided regarding Ghazal's condition, whereabouts, or the charges being brought against her. Her arrest comes amid an intensified crackdown on widespread protests in Iran, compounded by an ongoing Internet blackout and reports that thousands of protestors have been killed by security forces.
Ghazal, who is a law graduate, has faced severe restrictions since converting to Christianity. Authorities have prevented her from taking the bar exam and repeatedly pressured her to leave the country. In addition, her husband, who is also a Christian convert, has been unable to access medication to manage his Parkinson's disease – deepening the family's hardship in the wake of her disappearance. Previously published reports concerning the persecution of Christians in Iran are available here.
- Lift up Ghazal before God's throne of grace – along with all those who are likewise being detained or living under threat because of their Christian faith – praying that He will mightily protect, sustain and strengthen them.
- Additionally, please remember Ghazal's husband in your prayers, asking the Lord to grant him greatly needed comfort, courage and strength as he endures this season of uncertainty while also struggling with his physical health.
- Intercede for the country of Iran as a whole, so that God's peace, justice and restoration may prevail in the midst of government-inflicted violence and civil unrest.
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